ICON

Image

Babies cry for many reasons and they are hardwired to cry whenever they need a parent to help them. This is because their brains have yet to develop the circuits that allow for self-control or understanding. Crying is Nature’s way of making sure the baby gets their parents’ attention quickly.

Crying can signal a range of things; discomfort and startle are common examples. Sometimes, babies cry for no reason at all and sometimes, when they cry, they cannot be settled. When this happens, it may be upsetting for both the baby and the parent, but it causes no harm and will eventually stop.

Experts say that after around 5 months, crying becomes more ‘purposeful’. Which means that after your baby is 5 months old, they are more likely to be crying for a reason.

The ICON website provides extensive material to promote that infant crying is normal. This includes information about the “Pause at the door” tool and a video about peaks of infant crying. These are available in the following link: Infant crying is normal - ICON Cope

Image

Babies can cry for a number of reasons, including if they are hungry, wet or dirty, or if they are unwell. But, sometimes, babies can also cry for no reason.

If your baby is crying, but you don’t know why, check their basic needs and try some simple calming techniques, which include: 

• Talking calmly to your baby, stroking them gently.
• Hum, sing or play soothing music to your baby.
• Hold your baby close to you – skin to skin.
• Go outside with your baby and walk them in a pram or baby sling.
• Sucking can help relieve a baby’s crying. If offering the breast is not possible, a dummy can soothe your baby.
• Try giving your baby a warm bath.   

Not all of these techniques will work all of the time, but remember – that’s ok. Stay calm, this phase will pass. 

The ICON website provides extensive material to promote that infant crying is normal. This includes information about when to worry about a baby’s crying and a video about how to comfort your baby. These are available in the following link: Comforting methods can help - ICON Cope

Image

It’s ok to walk away if you have checked that your baby is safe and the crying is getting to you. After a few minutes, when you are feeling calm, go back and check on the baby.

Not being able to stop a baby crying does not mean you are doing anything wrong, or that you have a ‘bad’ or ‘naughty’ baby. 

Parents should think about how they might take their mind off the crying. Make sure that the baby is safe before walking away.  Then you must go back to check on the baby after a few minutes, when you feel yourself calming down. It is important for parents to find time for themselves to help them cope through, what can be, a stressful time.

The ICON website provides extensive material to promote that infant crying is normal. This includes information about how to create a Crying Plan to cope with crying and a video about relaxation techniques. These are available in the following link: It’s OK to walk away - ICON Cope

Image

Never, ever shake or hurt a baby, as this could cause lasting brain damage or death. If you are worried that your baby is unwell, contact your GP or call NHS 111. 

Parents and people looking after babies can sometimes get so angry and frustrated with a baby’s cry, they lose control and shake their baby.  This is highly dangerous, and could lead to lifelong injuries and, potentially, death. You should check that any carers understand how to cope with crying before leaving your baby with them.

The ICON website provides extensive material to promote that infant crying is normal. This includes a video of the BBC’s Shaken Inside Out Programme and “Ellis’ Story”. These are available in the following link: Never, ever shake a baby - ICON Cope